Honda S2000 Convertible review (1999-2008)

The sales success of the Porsche Boxster has impressed everyone, but it was hardly surprising that it was Honda that came out with the strongest competitor. The Japanese manufacturer has the right credentials and if the style of the S2000 is under-played, the rest of the package is highly impressive. Under the bonnet is the world's most powerful non-turbo 2.0-litre engine, producing 240bhp. Yet it's not just this raw power that makes the Honda so exciting. Everything has been designed to thrill. The driving position feels every inch the sports car, your feet find perfectly spaced pedals, for your left hand a titanium topped gear knob. It's a cinch to drive around town, too.

The only criticism is that you have to be very single-minded to make the most of the performance - let the revs drop below 6,000rpm and the S2000 is about as lively as a Mazda MX-5. Above that, and the revs scream around to 9,000 rpm in the blink of an eye. With perfect weight distribution and sharp, precise steering, cornering is also predictable and fun. Revised models are available now, which feature more colours and a glass rear window.